Developing Better Walking Habits

Walking is a great form of easy exercise, whether it’s a leisurely stroll around the park or a fast-paced walk around a track. There are some steps and precautions you should take in order to get the most out of walking, without causing injury or strain.

Your feet are sensitive and open footwear leave your skin vulnerable to the sun’s rays. Before you walk around outside, you should apply sunscreen to any exposed skin, particularly on the top of your feet and the front of your ankles. This adds a layer of protection from a potentially painful sunburn later on in the day.

You should bring water on your walk, whether indoor or outdoor. Staying hydrated has benefits for your entire body, from keeping your skin healthy to reducing any swelling of your feet and ankles.

Make sure you are wearing comfortable shoes that lend appropriate support to your arches. Orthotic inserts can improve the comfort and performance of your shoes and can be custom made to your feet.

If you get bored on your walks, find new places to go and bring a friend. Checking out a new place with someone you enjoy spending time with can cut down on the monotony of the walk if you go to the same place every day.

Set goals for yourself to achieve a sense of accomplishment when you’re done, no matter how small. It is ’s a good way to stay driven and invest in the activity.

If you are experiencing pain while walking, give Ankle and Foot Specialist of New Jersey a call! We provide solutions from custom orthotics to physical therapy. Healing your discomfort is our top priority! Give us a call at (908) 222-8980, (732) 356-FOOT (3668), or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Warren or South Plainfield office (right on the border with Edison).

By Dr. Jyotsna Thapar, a graduate of Rutgers University of New Jersey and the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. She completed her podiatric medical training at New York Methodist Hospital and podiatric surgical training at Northport VA Medical Center. Dr. Thapar is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.